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The new Apple iPad is now available for purchase and many people are discussing the poor ergonomics of the product. Amongst the key noted concerns (so far) are:
- The weight: The iPad is around 1.5-1.6 pounds (dependent upon the model), whereas it’s competitor, the Amazon Kindle weighs in at only 10.3 ounces. This raises the question – because the iPad may be used to watch movies and read books, does this additional weight increase the risk of neck/shoulder/wrist musculoskeletal problems?
- The Shape: The back panel of the iPad is rounded. Does the operator then have to “hold” the iPad at all times? As a culture accustomed to resting a laptop on a working surface, how does this change our holding behavior?
- The Touch Screen: Will the “one-finger” swiping and typing increase risk to the index finger for overuse injuries? Does the easy to smudge screen lead to vision disturbances?
My Review: I have tried the new iPad and have a response to the issues noted above:
- The Weight: I did not find the weight to be awkward or heavy. In fact, I did not think it was much heavier that the book I read over the weekend. Using the iPad as a replacement to my heavy, awkward laptop, I believe will actually be an ergonomic plus for me! So does my shoulder that aches after lugging my laptop with shoulder strap case though the airport.
- The Shape: The one that I tried had a nice case that allowed for the iPad to sit firmly on the desk surface so static holding was not necessary.
- The Touch Screen: I agree that the iPad can cause pain in the wrists and fingers, but common sense should motivate a user to take breaks when his/her notices aching in their joints. If the user’s wrists are aching while typing on the smaller keyboard screen, a keyboard attachment is a good idea for purchase.
Personal responsibility for our actions and behaviors lies at the heart of the ergonomic debate regarding the weight, shape and touch-screen use of the iPad. There are simple acts that the user can do to reduce the onset of pain or risk an injury from happening. For an instance, if holding the iPad is too heavy, buy a case that allows for it to be set on a desk/workstation. If the screen is dirty, clean it.
As technology continues to change we must continue to pay attention to OUR symptoms, and act accordingly. Not all devices will work for all people, we are each unique, and will use this and all devices different then the next guy.
So, I guess the moral to my story is that…Each of us needs to think of ergonomics and body mechanics when we are using all tools in our daily life. From the cars we drive, to the pencils we write with. It is up to us, to learn how our bodies interact with the environment and choose the best items for us.
3 Comments
I work for a software company and have been using the iPad since it came out. This device is not condusive to long-term use. My neck and shoulder are killing me. I have tried propping it up, sitting it on my desk, I even tried leaning back in my chair and crossing one leg over the other as a iPad-stand (patent pending heh). Being a tall person with a desk job, ergonomics is not a new concern for me and I have learned to adjust for comfort. Unfortunately, I simply can not make the iPad comfortable.
Thanks for the comment!
I do agree that the iPad is not a replacement for a full sized desktop computer. However, I do think it offers a nice alternative to the bulky laptops. Some people will find that a laptop works better for them, especially if they are using it long term. Yet others will find the light weight, easy to carry option of the iPad works better for them. I do think that, as with any product, what works well for someone, will not suit the needs of another.
That being said…I think you said it best by “I have learned to adjust for comfort”. I think this is the most important idea in all of these conversations about ergonomics. Each of us has to look at our environment and determine what works for US, and adjust accordingly. There is no “magic bullet”. We each need to be aware of our environment and how it is affecting our physical state, and take measures to reduce wear and tear on our bodies.
Again thanks for the comment. Good luck with that patent!
As the proverbial gadget user and someone who uses an ebook reader (nook) I find that it is very easy to use as a book, it’s light and e-ink is very easy on the eyes; even though it needs a light it weighs next to nothing. I suspect the iPad is similar enough as I also use an iTouch. I enjoy using the small hand held device and reading in the dark is no problem but it causes eye strain more so than the eBook reader and except for brief notes the keyboard is really next to useless (although it works perfectly well to send in your password at the iTunes store) but it’s purpose isn’t to write the next bestseller. I would liken the iPad to a portfolio/pad that you’d take to a meeting so you can jot information with it’s built in keyboard and perhaps surf the company’s intranet the send a Tweet on your boring meeting to your non-company friends. Taking the show on the road I’d definitely make use of the iPad docking station, unless you really need some heavy duty processing power your mileage may vary
Thanks for your insights and information this really makes a lot of sense and thanks too to your other commentators.
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